What is needed to use Bilo?

Is Bilo compatible with other building blocks?

Yes with the use of an adapter. Of course the traditional blocks will not show up in the digital world.

How does Bilo work?

Each block is equipped with a micro controller. The blocks by themselves are passive and do not need batteries, hence no charging is required. Power is provided by our build platform, which also manages all communication between the blocks. The build platform is powered by 4 AA batteries and is connected to your chosen device via Bluetooth.

What is the origin of the Bilo name?

The Bilo name was created from the word bilocation: The state of being or ability to be in two places at the same time.

Can Bilo be used with any device?

We recommend using a tablet. Of course a smart phone will work too, but the larger screen of a tablet makes for a more comfortable user experience.
As of now, the apps run on Android only. Starting from Q3 2018 we will support iOS too.
Our developers also work on solution, which will allow to access Bilo through an ordinary Browser. That means the Bilo hardware will become accessible with an ordinary PC.

What is the range of age Bilo is targeting?

Officially Bilo is made for children aged 5-12.
However, we can tell from the still small range of apps that are already out for testing, that the range very likely will stretch beyond. The puzzle app Tangram offers very challenging levels for example, which will keep brains of all ages busy. Yet in free build mode, Bilo can be fun to play with for toddlers as young as 2 or 3.

By using Bilo, which skills will be fostered?

In essence everything that building blocks do, Bilo does as well.
Most of all it trains spatial cognition. The blocks are 3D and tangible and allow to build in space, so they enhance the capability of spatial awareness, which is essential to manage basic and high-level cognitive tasks in everyday life.

Another very important part is fine motor skills and dexterity.
At the same time well known functions such as memory or math skills or even language skills can be trained.
Problem solving (when playing puzzles), creativity (when freely building structures), vocabulary build up (with language games) or very practical hand-eye coordination are all areas that the physical blocks of Bilo help to improve.

Is there a similar product on the market already?

Building with tangible building blocks in reality and having the built structure mirrored in a virtual environment has been the subject of many projects already – dating as far back as 2000.
As a result, quite a few companies offer “smart” blocks. However, their “smartness” is typically limited in some ways. The range of complexity and functionality Bilo can offer, is unique.

Are the blocks waterproof?

Neither the blocks nor the base are waterproof. That much we can say for sure. Bilo is currently undergoing tests in order to establish its robustness rating (IPXX) according to the standard set forth by the International Electrotechnical Commission.

Are the blocks available only in white color?

Yes, both base and blocks are only available in white. It's a translucent ABS to allow for the light emitted by the LEDs to shine through evenly diffused. The LEDs are of RGB type, which allows for the entire color spectrum to be used.

Can parents or educators create content themselves?

Yes – the BiloBuilder app allows the user to create content; also Tangram allows for the players to build their own structures. These are just two examples. More will follow as we keep building new apps.

How many hours of content does Bilo provide?

That is difficult to answer – we are tempted to say: infinite.

The six pieces of 8-stud Bilo blocks can be put together in 915'103'765 ways. If we combine this with the different apps types (puzzle, memo, creativity, building, competing etc.) it becomes clear that there are no limits.